What is the most common cause of pericarditis?

What is the most common cause of pericarditis?

• A. Post viral infection
• B. Bacterial infection
• C. Uremia
• D. Autoimmune disease

Answer: (A)

Most acute pericarditis is linked to a recent viral illness, or is labeled idiopathic when no pathogen is found, which effectively means a presumed viral cause. Viruses such as Coxsackie B, echovirus, and influenza are classic culprits, and the inflammatory reaction in the pericardium after these infections is what drives the chest pain, friction rub, and the typical ECG changes. Because this viral/idiopathic group accounts for the majority of cases, it is considered the most common cause. Bacterial pericarditis is much less common and usually presents with higher fever, more systemic illness, and a risk of purulent effusion or tamponade, requiring prompt antibiotics and sometimes drainage. Uremic pericarditis occurs in advanced kidney failure and is not the usual cause in the general population. Autoimmune diseases can cause pericarditis, but they contribute less frequently than viral etiologies in most settings.

Most acute pericarditis is linked to a recent viral illness, or is labeled idiopathic when no pathogen is found, which effectively means a presumed viral cause. Viruses such as Coxsackie B, echovirus, and influenza are classic culprits, and the inflammatory reaction in the pericardium after these infections is what drives the chest pain, friction rub, and the typical ECG changes. Because this viral/idiopathic group accounts for the majority of cases, it is considered the most common cause.

Bacterial pericarditis is much less common and usually presents with higher fever, more systemic illness, and a risk of purulent effusion or tamponade, requiring prompt antibiotics and sometimes drainage. Uremic pericarditis occurs in advanced kidney failure and is not the usual cause in the general population. Autoimmune diseases can cause pericarditis, but they contribute less frequently than viral etiologies in most settings.